Principle 5: Civil society engagement

Governments should build open and constructive relationships with civil society in the discussion and delivery of their strategies

Policy makers often view civil society as a problem to be avoided. However, NGOs and people directly affected by drug policies (in particular people who use drugs and growers of illicit crops) are an invaluable source of expertise because of their understanding of drug markets and affected communities. They can therefore play a major role in analysing the drug phenomenon and in delivering health and social programmes. They should therefore be involved in the design and implementation of drug policies, in particular:

Stimulating a vibrant network of civil society organisations that can support policy design and implementation

Improving monitoring and evaluation capability.

IDPC seeks to facilitate the creation of clear and open lines of communication between governments and civil society representatives in order to engage in meaningful and respectful exchange of information and perspectives.